How Subutex Treatment Works

First approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2002 for the treatment of opioid addiction, Subutex has since provided numerous individuals with relief from the painful symptoms of withdrawal while eliminating cravings for continued opioid use. Subutex is a partial opioid agonist-antagonist that is commonly prescribed within licensed treatment facilities to individuals who are struggling with a dependency to opioids. With buprenorphine hydrochloride as its active ingredient, Subutex is prescribed daily in the form of a dissolvable tablet that is absorbed into a person’s system.

The use of Subutex will not cause patients to experience disruptions in their cognitive functioning, which allows individuals who are prescribed this medication to play an active role in daily obligations such as work and school. Extensive research has confirmed the safety of Subutex when taken as directed and under the close guidance of a trained medical professional as the use of this medication will not cause vital organ damage.

Individuals who are interested in incorporating Subutex into their comprehensive plan of treatment should openly discuss its use with their treatment provider. Discovery House Comprehensive Treatment Centers of Utah offer several medications that can be incorporated into treatment, which is why finding the appropriate fit based upon the unique treatment requirements of each individual patient is imperative to his or her safety and treatment progress. When used as directed, the use of this medication can assist individuals in progressing towards a future that does not include the abuse of opioids.

The Benefits of Treatment & Counseling

The Benefits of Subutex Treatment & Counseling

Utah Comprehensive Treatment Centers firmly believe that patients must receive treatment and support for both the emotional and physical components of their addictions. The medications that are prescribed within treatment supply patients with relief from the physical discomforts associated with withdrawal while eliminating cravings for continued opioid use. In order for the emotional piece of addiction to be treated, individuals must take part in counseling that is designed to understand the root causes of their addictive behavior. During the course of treatment, patients will progress through the following stages:

Induction: Patients are first introduced to Subutex during the first phase of treatment. Typically, patients are still experiencing symptoms of withdrawal which normally takes place after the use of opioids has ceased.

Stabilization: The stabilization phase of treatment occurs once an individual is no longer experiencing the symptoms of withdrawal nor are they craving additional use of opioids. During this phase of treatment patients are able to adjust their dosage of Subutex based upon their individual requirements.

Maintenance: During the maintenance phase of treatment, patients are stable enough to safely wean off of their medication and either remain opioid-free without the assistance of medication or transition onto a different prescription.

Through the use of counseling interventions, patients are able to address and receive treatment for the underlying causes of their addictive behavior. Once a patient understands why he or she turned to opioid abuse in the first place, he or she is better able to prepare for a future that does not include the use of opioids or other substances. Individual counseling allows patients the opportunity to work one-on-one with one of our highly qualified counselors in a safe and supportive setting. These sessions also allow individuals to work through any issues or concerns that may arise during the course of treatment. Group counseling sessions are counselor-led and promote support and encouragement amongst members of the group. Patients come together with their peers in a safe atmosphere where they will discuss a variety of topics that help to promote progression in their treatment.

How to Support Your Loved One During Medication-Assisted Treatment: If someone you love is taking part in treatment for opioid dependency, it is extremely important that you obtain support of your own. Addiction affects everyone that is involved, not just the individual who is physically abusing a substance. By taking part in family counseling, individual counseling, and support groups, you will be given the tools necessary to productively help your loved one as he or she progresses in treatment.

How You Can Be Successful in a Medication-Assisted Treatment Program:Discovery House Comprehensive Treatment Centers of Utah offer the following suggestions to patients as they take part in treatment at our center:

Adhere to all treatment guidelines regarding taking your Subutex.

Attend all scheduled individual and group counseling sessions and play an active role during those sessions.

Voice any questions or issues that may arise while taking Subutex. Adjustments to medications and dosages can be made if deemed appropriate.

Refrain from using opioids and/or alcohol while in treatment

Openly communication any questions or concerns that may arise during the course of treatment.

The compassionate staff at Discovery House Comprehensive Treatment Centers of Utah is here to ensure that patients receive the highest quality of care possible.

Side Effects

The Side Effects of Subutex

Like many medications, Subutex can cause individuals to experience side effects. Patients who are prescribed this medication should first discuss the use of any other medications with their prescribing physician to ensure that no dangerous interactions can take place. The following side effects have been reported by individuals who have been prescribed Subutex:

Most common side effects:

Constipation

Nausea

Anxiety

Depression

Sleeplessness

Sweating

Weakness

Headache

Infections

Pain

Back pain

Withdrawal symptoms

Fairly common side effects:

Vomiting

Dizziness

Nervousness

Runny eyes

Tiredness

Chills

Flu-like symptoms

Diarrhea

Less common side effects:

Accidental injury

Upset stomach

Abscesses

Fever

The teams of addiction treatment experts at Discovery House Comprehensive Treatment Centers of Utah are here to assist you or someone you love in safely returning to a life that does not include the use of opioids. We are here to provide you with a customized plan of treatment that meets your individual requirements and goals. Please contact us today to learn more about Subutex as well as the other treatment options that we offer.